Cotter Force
A six-stepped waterfall in peaceful woodland with a fully accessible path and pristine swimming pool.
Cotter Force is a serene six-stepped waterfall nestled in woodland near Hawes in the Yorkshire Dales. This accessible natural attraction features a level, wheelchair-friendly path that winds alongside Cotterdale Beck through a tranquil landscape. The falls cascade into a clear pool ideal for wild swimming, and the site is completely free to visit with ample parking at a nearby layby. Birdwatchers will appreciate sightings of dippers, grey wagtails, redstarts, and kingfishers along the route.
A brief summary to Cotter Force
- A684, Hawes, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early on weekends and during school holidays, as the small layby parking area fills quickly. The site has space for only about six vehicles.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching. Dippers, grey wagtails, redstarts, and kingfishers are regularly spotted along Cotterdale Beck.
- If planning to swim, wear water shoes or bring footwear with good grip, as rocks around the pool become slippery when wet.
- Visit after rainfall to see the falls at their most impressive, though be prepared for muddy ground around the waterfall pool itself.
- Pack a picnic and use one of the three benches along the path to enjoy a meal with the sound of the waterfall as your backdrop.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Sheltered Areas
Getting There
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Private Vehicle via A684
From Hawes town centre, take the A684 towards Sedbergh. After crossing the River Ure on a narrow bridge, continue for approximately 2 miles. A small tarmacked layby appears on the right side of the road. The drive from Hawes takes about 5–8 minutes. Parking is free and accommodates approximately six vehicles. Note that the layby is not prominently signposted; use GPS coordinates or a mapping application to locate it precisely.
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Walking from Hawes Town Centre
Hawes town centre is approximately 2 miles south of Cotter Force. A walking route from Hawes to the layby parking area would take 40–50 minutes along the A684 shoulder, though this is not an ideal pedestrian route due to traffic. Alternatively, combine a visit to Hawes with other nearby attractions such as the Dales Museum or local cafés, then drive the short distance to Cotter Force.
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Public Bus Service
The nearest regular bus stop is in Hawes town centre, served by local bus routes connecting Hawes to Sedbergh and surrounding villages. Journey times from Hawes bus station to the A684 layby area are approximately 10–15 minutes by bus, though service frequency is limited and routes do not stop directly at the Cotter Force parking area. Check local transport schedules for current timetables and connections.
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Nearest Train Station
Garsdale railway station, on the Settle-Carlisle Line, is approximately 8 miles north of Cotter Force. Journey time from the station to the waterfall by car is roughly 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, Hawes is served by seasonal bus connections from Garsdale station during peak tourist months.
Cotter Force location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cotter Force
A Cascade of Six Gentle Steps
Cotter Force comprises a series of six stepped waterfalls, each forming its own small cascade with the largest single drop reaching approximately five feet. The falls tumble over Cotterdale Beck, a minor tributary of the River Ure, creating a mesmerizing display of water and mist. The stepped nature of the cascade means that water flows gently from one level to the next, producing a soothing soundtrack that accompanies visitors throughout their time at the site. The clear waters at the base of the falls pool into a natural basin, creating an inviting spot for swimming during warmer months.A Woodland Setting Rich with Wildlife
The waterfall is set within a peaceful woodland environment that supports abundant birdlife. As you walk alongside Cotterdale Beck, keep watch for dippers that bob along the water's edge, grey wagtails with their distinctive yellow undersides, redstarts displaying their russet plumage, and long-tailed tits flitting through the canopy. Kingfishers occasionally grace the beck with their brilliant blue presence. The woodland canopy filters sunlight, creating dappled light that plays across the water and rocks, while the constant sound of flowing water and birdsong creates an immersive natural experience.Miles Without Stiles: Accessibility Reimagined
Cotter Force is designated as part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park's 'Miles Without Stiles' initiative, a programme designed to create accessible walking routes free of traditional barriers. The path from the layby to the falls spans approximately 500 metres and follows a level, purpose-built track constructed of compacted stone with a width of 110 centimetres. This surface accommodates wheelchairs, pushchairs, and those with reduced mobility equally well. Three benches are positioned evenly along the footpath, offering rest spots and opportunities to pause and absorb the surroundings. The path runs directly alongside Cotterdale Beck, allowing walkers to remain connected to the water throughout their journey.Historical Significance and Artistic Legacy
Cotter Force holds a place in British artistic history. The renowned landscape painter Joseph Turner visited the waterfall in 1816 during his comprehensive tour of Yorkshire. Turner was commissioned to create illustrations for a history of York, and his travels through the region captured the dramatic and picturesque qualities of Yorkshire's natural features. Turner's visit underscores the enduring appeal of Cotter Force as a subject worthy of artistic attention, a reputation that has only grown with time.A Swimming Destination and Year-Round Appeal
The pool at the base of the falls has become a popular spot for wild swimming, particularly during warmer months when the water temperature is more inviting. The clear waters and relatively sheltered woodland setting create an appealing environment for those seeking a refreshing dip. However, visitors should be aware that rocks surrounding the pool can become slippery, particularly after rain or during wet weather. The woodland setting means the area can become muddy following rainfall, though the compacted stone path itself remains accessible.Practical Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
Parking is available in a small tarmacked layby directly off the A684, with space for approximately six vehicles. The layby is free, though it can fill quickly during peak visiting times. The site itself offers no on-site facilities; the nearest toilets and amenities are located in Hawes town centre, approximately two miles away and a short drive from the parking area. The Dales Museum in Hawes houses the Firebox café and provides fully wheelchair-accessible facilities. Despite the lack of on-site infrastructure, the simplicity of the location contributes to its appeal as an unspoiled natural destination.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Dent Stores B&B
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The Walking Shop
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Wildlife Habitat
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
